A 3.63-meter long saltwater crocodile that had been causing distress to the community of Bulla in Australia’s Northern Territory was euthanized by local authorities. The predator, which surfaced in the Baines River after severe flooding, had killed several dogs and posed a threat to nearby residents, including children.

The decision to remove the crocodile was made after consultations involving police, wildlife rangers, and traditional owners. Northern Territory Police confirmed that the crocodile was shot to mitigate the significant risk it presented to the community. The reptile was then taken to Bulla, where it was prepared and consumed in a traditional feast.

Authorities used the event to conduct a crocodile safety session for local children, highlighting the potential dangers present in the region’s waterways. Kristen Hay, Director of Wildlife Operations at the Department of Environment, Parks, and Water Security, emphasized the importance of adhering to designated swimming areas to avoid encounters with dangerous reptiles.

The Northern Territory Commander, Kylie Anderson, acknowledged the seamless collaboration between various agencies that ensured the community’s safety. The incident underscores the increased presence of crocodiles in areas where they have not been commonly seen, attributed to the extensive flooding earlier in the year.